Implicit bias refers to the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner. Because the implicit associations we hold arise outside of conscious awareness, that implicit biases do not necessarily align with our explicit beliefs and stated intentions. This program explores the unconscious feelings and attitudes we may have about other people based on characteristics such as race, ethnicity, age, gender, and appearance that may not align with our explicit beliefs.

This program explores how implicit bias works and how it affects day-to-day decisions, and the exercise of discretion, including its impact on the legal profession. This presentation includes a discussion of scenarios based on typical interactions, including the fact that initial impressions matter, and concludes with some advice on how to overcome implicit biases.